Mercedes is moving away from the oval-shaped design approach and incorporating hybrid options into its electric vehicles.

• The latest Mercedes CLA EV boasts an impressive WLTP range of up to 492 miles.
• It is slightly larger than its predecessor and will come with either hybrid or all-electric options.
• It needs to arrive at dealerships before the year ends.

Mercedes has been generating excitement around the new CLA over several months, and now the wait is finally over as we can lay eyes on it. This third-generation CLA represents an entirely fresh design, constructed on a brand-new platform and offered with options for both electric and hybrid propulsion systems. This represents a complete overhaul of Mercedes' electric vehicle strategy, which initially faced significant challenges. .

It keeps much of the old design's aesthetic appeal, yet it's a larger vehicle with distinct dimensions. The new model stands about an inch higher compared to its predecessor, features a wheelbase that extends by 2.4 inches, and has an overall length increased by 1.3 inches. With a total length of 185.9 inches, it is practically the same size as a Tesla Model 3 , even though they're about 10% heavier.

The inside has been entirely revamped and comes equipped with Mercedes' latest entertainment setup capable of supporting up to three displays upfront. The CLA's passenger compartment boasts premium materials designed for an upscale experience; notably, one material derived from repurposed paper offers both aesthetic appeal and tactile comfort. As claimed by Mercedes, this innovative surface resists staining even when exposed to spills like coffee.

We’ve discussed the MMA platform This foundation supports the newly launched CLA sedan extensively. Additionally, it will be utilized in a station-wagon variant of the CLA, along with future replacements for the present model. EQA and EQB crossovers (though with different names) The latter should provide a seating arrangement for seven people similar to the current model available now.

The Electric CLA

The electric variant of the CLA will come equipped with two different battery capacities: either 58 kilowatt-hours or 85 kWh. This larger battery provides the single-engine CLA 250+ model with an estimated driving range of up to 492 miles (792 kilometers), based on the lenient WLTP standards. Opting for the stronger twin-motor CLA 350 4Matic reduces this maximum range slightly down to 479 miles (771 km).

At launch, the CLA 250+ will serve as the entry-level model, offering 268 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, with an estimated acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. In contrast, the more powerful CLA 350 4MATIC produces 349 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, slashing the zero-to-60-mph run down to just 4.8 seconds; however, both versions have their top speeds electronically capped at 130 mph.

Mercedes has not released any data regarding the smaller 58-kWh LFP battery, which will be installed in the more affordable electric variants. the new CLA Models equipped with that pack might experience reduced power output as well. It’s certain they won't be able to recharge at the same 320 kilowatts rate as vehicles fitted with NMC batteries, which boast this impressive maximum charging speed thanks to the CLA's design. 800-volt Architecture. Buyers in North America will have the convenience of charging directly at Tesla Superchargers, thanks to the vehicle’s inclusion of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector. If you already own a J1772 plug for your home or workplace (which is part of the slower charging system used with CCS), keep in mind that the CLA also includes this type of port. .

An additional benefit of the 800-volt architecture is enhanced operational efficiency, which helps clarify how the CLA manages to achieve nearly 800 kilometers with an 85 kWh battery capacity. Mercedes emphasized this point for our understanding. The CLA showed remarkable efficiency figures. during testing, posting a Lucid-Air-rivaling 5.17 miles per kilowatt-hour (12 kilometers per 100 megajoules).

The electric CLA stands out thanks to its 2.5-cubic-foot front trunk, enhancing the vehicle’s storage capacity alongside the 14.3-cubic-foot rear compartment. Unlike first-generation Mercedes-EQ models, which lacked such features entirely, this indicates significant progress in design efficiency for Mercedes. Despite being marginally bigger overall with an extended wheelbase compared to previous versions, the enhanced dimensions do not guarantee more spacious interiors within the passenger area.

Mercedes notes that although the new model offers better front and rear headroom, it has reduced rear legroom and shoulder space, with a trunk that is 1.9 cubic feet smaller as well. At around six feet tall, I found the backseat of the CLA wasn't particularly spacious. Similar to what we see in the EQA and EQB models, the floor sits unusually high, lifting your knees upward. This leaves insufficient clearance beneath the front seats for sliding your feet comfortably underneath.

The Hybrid CLA

If you opt for the new CLA with a hybrid powertrain, you'll find a vehicle that appears similar but has several notable distinctions. The most significant change is the entirely revamped floorpan, as it no longer requires space for a battery pack. This alteration leads to increased depth in the rear footwell area, enhancing comfort compared to its all-electric counterpart.

The vehicle gives up its frunk and gets a replacement in the form of a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 190 horsepower. Although Mercedes has not released specifications for the CLA hybrid, entry-level versions will come with front-wheel drive, and power can be directed to the rear wheels as an option. In contrast, the CLA EV with a single motor uses rear-wheel drive and sits noticeably higher due to the placement of the battery under the floor.

The most straightforward way to distinguish between the two models is by viewing their fronts, as each features distinct grille designs. While both incorporate a star motif, only the electric vehicle sports a fully enclosed grille with illuminated stars. Additionally, Mercedes plans to include an illuminated emblem in the CLA; however, this feature may vary in brightness according to regional markets.

Mercedes engineered the 1.5-liter M252 inline-four engine for their upcoming range of affordable vehicles, focusing on enhanced fuel economy. This motor operates using the Miller cycle and incorporates a 48-volt electric setup to drive both the hybrid component of the drivetrain and auxiliary systems like air conditioning, ensuring these remain functional even when the engine is dormant and the vehicle is operating solely on electric power. According to previous statements from Mercedes, the highest-output variant of this engine—which will be exclusively available in the United States—delivers 188 horsepower along with 221 pound-feet of torque. When combined with an additional boost from the hybrid system, this configuration ought to provide ample performance capabilities.

All CLA hybrid models will feature an identical eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, Mercedes claims it’s technically a three-clutch system incorporating the electric drive motor. This additional clutch can disconnect the engine entirely from the wheels, enabling the vehicle to glide smoothly up to speeds of 62 mph (100 km/h). Beyond this threshold, the engine remains active.

The electric CLA likewise includes a transmission. a two-speed unit This operates with the rear motor. Similar to the Porsche Taycan, its transmission is designed to boost acceleration without sacrificing high-speed cruising efficiency.

Toys

Mercedes states that none of its competitors match the CLA’s extensive list of standard features. Every car comes with LED headlamps, power-foldable side mirrors, a sports steering wheel, heated front seating, single-zone air conditioning, and four rapid-charging USB-C ports capable of delivering up to 100 watts each. In contrast, the Tesla Model 3 boasts an even greater array of standard amenities such as ventilated front seats along with heated rear ones, a display specifically designed for passengers at the back, individual temperature controls for them, dual wireless smartphone chargers, and electronically adjustable components throughout.

Similar to the Model 3, the CLA comes with a full-sized panoramic glass roof as standard equipment. This expansive glass pane significantly enhances the experience of sitting in the rear seats. Much like in the Model 3, there is no shade available for this glass roof. Mercedes claims that their treatment process ensures sunlight management without needing a cover. However, since Tesla has made similar assertions regarding the Model 3 but passengers often find themselves overheated during summertime, we remain skeptical of Mercedes' claim on this matter.

If you're fond of displays, you'll enjoy the CLA, which makes its debut. Mercedes A fresh approach to interior styling has been introduced. The dashboard consists of a singular, uninterrupted panel featuring two or three displays. The driver benefits from a 10.25-inch screen alongside a larger 14-inch center display. Additionally, an optional second 14-inch screen can be installed for the passenger, providing similar features to the main central screen.

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Mercedes claims it has enhanced the upscale feel inside compared to the previous version, and this is evident with the high-quality materials used throughout as well as the thoughtful layout. Nevertheless, some features typical for higher trims are missing; notably, there are no backseat climate controls, and just two buttons on the driver's door manage all four window functions hint at its budget-friendly status. On the plus side, ample ambient lighting adds an elegant touch, extending beneath the primary dashboard, across the front door panels, and into the central console area.

The inclusion of the optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system paired with Dolby Atmos is truly standout and an essential feature for the latest CLA model.

With its EQXX -Driven design and technology make the CLA a significant advancement for the brand, but its ultimate success hinges on its cost. While Mercedes has not disclosed the prices as of now, they are expected to announce them along with more specifics regarding the model within the coming months. Should the vehicle be affordable enough, it could become quite popular for the company.